Kihei Boat Ramp - Image 1
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Kihei Boat Ramp

4.6
·315 reviews·Kihei, United States

A functional boat ramp offering stunning sunset views and serving as a prime departure point for whale watching and snorkeling adventures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Unforgettable, unedited views

CrowdMedium
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Kihei Boat Ramp - Image 1

Kihei Boat Ramp

Best Time

Sunset

Unforgettable, unedited views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A functional boat ramp offering stunning sunset views and serving as a prime departure point for whale watching and snorkeling adventures.

4.6
(315 reviews)

"Perfect hidden gem for watching Maui sunsets! This less crowded spot offers genuine enjoyment of Hawaii’s natural beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch stunning, unedited sunsets here. A peaceful alternative to busier spots .

🐳 Whale Watching Hub

Ideal departure point for whale watching tours, especially in winter months .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Sunset Views

Spectacular Sunset Views

Kihei Boat Ramp

Witness unedited, breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific. A peaceful alternative to crowded tourist spots.

Whale Watching Expeditions

Whale Watching Expeditions

Kihei Boat Ramp

Embark on unforgettable whale watching tours, especially during migration season. A truly magical experience.

Gateway to Molokini & Turtle Town

Gateway to Molokini & Turtle Town

Kihei Boat Ramp

Your launchpad for snorkeling adventures to Molokini Crater and swimming with sea turtles.

Local Food Truck Scene

Local Food Truck Scene

Nearby Kihei Food Oasis

Explore diverse local eats at the Kihei Food Oasis, a vibrant spot with numerous food trucks.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

While Kihei Boat Ramp is a functional launch point, its charm shines during specific times. Consider visiting during sunset for breathtaking views, or early morning for potential whale watching tours. Be aware of potential road closures due to wave damage, especially after storms.TikTok+1

Navigating Kihei's Roads and Amenities

Kihei's road system can be a bit tricky, with roundabouts that can catch visitors off guard.TikTok While the boat ramp itself is a hub for tours, amenities like restrooms can be basic.Reddit Plan accordingly and check local conditions, especially after heavy rains or swells.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Unforgettable, unedited views
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter Mornings (Whale Season)
Why
Prime whale watching opportunities
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THIS HAPPENED JUST NOW!!! I’m still on the boat!!! Mahalo Humble Tours! #kihei #maui #whales #shotoniphone #travelbucketlist #whale #Love #inspiration
@mauiguide
24.8K likes • 152.8K views

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch stunning, unedited sunsets here. A peaceful alternative to busier spots.Reddit

🐳 Whale Watching Hub

Ideal departure point for whale watching tours, especially in winter months.TikTok

Kihei Food Oasis features 14 diverse food trucks that are serving up authentic local eats #maui #mauieats #kiheimaui #kiheifoodoasis #kiheifoodtrucks #hawaiifoodtruck
@madeebylexi
20K likes • 274.6K views
TAG EM IF YOU KNOW HIM Kihei Boat Ramp 1/30/24 #maui#kihei#kiheiboatramp#surfing#southswell#hitechmaui#hawaii#djimini3#djiglobal#djiusa#djihawaii#surfsup#shortboard#longboard#boatramps#
ishoots808
59 likes • 1.7K views

🐠 Snorkel & Dive Tours

Your launchpad for Molokini and Turtle Town adventures.Instagram+1

🚚 Food Truck Delights

Explore diverse local eats at nearby Kihei Food Oasis.TikTok+1

Today’s job: Emergency water line leak repair at Kihei Small Boat Ramp for the DLNR’s Department of Boating and Ocean Recreation. Our crew discovered, diagnosed, and repaired a stubborn underground water line leak in the parking lot quickly and efficiently. Mahalo to all the awesome boat captains who applauded our work while dealing with no water for the day! #varescontracting #hawaiianowned #sinc...
varescontracting
74 likes • 3.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Catch stunning, unedited sunsets here. A peaceful alternative to busier spots.Reddit

🐳 Whale Watching Hub

Ideal departure point for whale watching tours, especially in winter months.TikTok

🐠 Snorkel & Dive Tours

Your launchpad for Molokini and Turtle Town adventures.Instagram+1

🚚 Food Truck Delights

Explore diverse local eats at nearby Kihei Food Oasis.TikTok+1

🚗 Navigating Roundabouts

Be prepared for Kihei's roundabouts; they can be a bit tricky.TikTok

🚽 Basic Restroom Facilities

Restrooms can be basic and in need of an upgrade.Reddit

🌊 Check Swell Conditions

Roads can be affected by wave damage; check conditions after storms.TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(315 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kihei Boat Ramp is a functional launch point praised for its stunning, unedited sunset views and as a convenient departure for whale watching and snorkeling tours. While the natural beauty and ocean activities are highlights, visitors note that restroom facilities are basic and roads can be impacted by severe weather.

"Perfect hidden gem for watching Maui sunsets! While primarily a boat landing, this less crowded spot offers sunset views without the crowds found at more popular locations. The peaceful atmosphere allows for genuine enjoyment of Hawaii’s natural beauty. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a more authentic sunset experience in Kīhei."

David Rojas

"Redline Boat took me to Molokini from Kihei Boat Landing. It was a stunning day. I saw a dolphin that was free for the first time in my life. I will never forget. This landing was clean and beautiful for pics. The bathroom was meh but typical for the beach."

Toya B

"This is our go to place for sunsets. The pic I'm attaching to this review is unedited and no filter, taken August 5th 2025."

Rod Anderson

What People Like

Beautiful sunset views
Convenient tour departure
Whale watching opportunities

What People Dislike

Basic restroom facilities
Potential road damage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kihei Boat Ramp is accessible by car. If coming from Wailuku, you can take the bus (approx. 1 hour, $4 day pass) or drive (approx. 25 minutes).TikTok Be mindful of Kihei's roundabouts.TikTok

Yes, parking is generally available at the Kihei Boat Ramp, though it can get busy, especially during peak tour times or events.

Yes, Kihei Boat Ramp is accessible from most parts of Maui by car. Public bus routes also serve the Kihei area.TikTok

Roads around Kihei can sometimes be affected by wave damage, especially after storms. It's advisable to check local conditions before heading out.TikTok+1

Kihei Boat Ramp is a well-known landmark in Kihei, often used as a departure point for various ocean activities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit the Kihei Boat Ramp itself. However, you will need to book tours or charters departing from here.

Kihei Boat Ramp is a popular departure point for whale watching tours,TikTok Molokini snorkeling trips,Instagram+1 and sunset cruises.

Tour prices vary depending on the operator and type of excursion. It's best to check with specific tour companies for current pricing.

Tour operating hours vary by company, but most whale watching and snorkeling tours depart in the morning or early afternoon.

Yes, it is highly recommended to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can watch boats launch and return, enjoy sunset views,Reddit and it's a departure point for various ocean tours like whale watching TikTok and snorkeling.Instagram

Yes, restrooms are available, but reviews suggest they can be basic and in need of cleaning.Reddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families, especially if you're taking a snorkel tour with a family-friendly operator.Reddit

Sunset offers beautiful views,Reddit while mornings are ideal for departing on whale watching or snorkeling tours.TikTok

While it's a boat ramp, some people do take a dip, and it's a convenient spot for tours that include swimming.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Kihei Food Oasis, featuring numerous food trucks, is nearby and offers a wide variety of local eats.TikTok+1

You can find diverse local cuisine, from authentic Hawaiian dishes to international flavors, at the Kihei Food Oasis.TikTok

Yes, the Kihei Food Oasis typically has plenty of seating available for diners.TikTok

While the Food Oasis is a short drive or walk, there are also various restaurants and eateries along South Kihei Road.

Yes, some TikToks mention great breakfast spots in the Kihei area.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The boat ramp offers great shots of boats, ocean activity, and especially stunning, unedited sunsets.Reddit

Sunset is highly recommended for photography due to the vibrant colors.Reddit Mornings are good for capturing boat activity.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.

Experiment with different angles from the shore, or capture the action from departing boats if you're on a tour.

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most shots. For wildlife, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for whale watching tours.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kihei Boat Ramp is an excellent starting point for family-friendly ocean adventures. Whale watching tours are a huge hit with kids, offering a chance to see majestic marine life up close.TikTok Many tour operators departing from the ramp are experienced with families and provide engaging commentary. Snorkeling trips to Molokini and Turtle Town are also highly recommended, with some operators specifically catering to younger swimmers and providing a safe, fun environment.Reddit The nearby Kihei Food Oasis offers a casual and diverse dining experience that should please even picky eaters.TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Kihei offers a more affordable base compared to some other South Maui towns.TikTok While tours from the boat ramp will have a cost, opting for a shared snorkel or whale watching tour can be more economical. The Kihei Food Oasis is a great way to eat affordably, offering delicious local food truck fare.TikTok+1 Public transportation via bus is also an option to get around the area, with a $4 day pass available,TikTok making it easier to explore without a rental car.

🌅 Couples & Sunset Lovers

Kihei Boat Ramp is a hidden gem for couples seeking a romantic and peaceful sunset experience.Reddit Unlike more popular beaches, the ramp offers a less crowded atmosphere, allowing for intimate moments watching the sky ablaze with color. It's also a convenient departure point for sunset cruises, which provide a luxurious way to enjoy the evening with stunning ocean views and often live music.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Ocean Adventures from Kihei Boat Ramp

Kihei Boat Ramp serves as a vital hub for a variety of ocean excursions. It's a prime departure point for whale watching tours, particularly during the winter months when humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters.TikTok Many visitors rave about the incredible sightings and the educational experience provided by local guides.

Beyond whale watching, the ramp is the gateway to exploring the underwater wonders of Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.Instagram+1 Numerous charter companies operate from here, offering snorkeling and diving trips. Reviews often highlight the quality of these tours, with specific mentions of family-friendly options and excellent guides who enhance the experience.Reddit The convenience of launching directly from Kihei makes these popular excursions easily accessible.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, sunset cruises also depart from Kihei Boat Ramp. These offer a beautiful perspective of Maui's coastline as the sun dips below the horizon. Some visitors have even reported seeing dolphins during these trips,Reddit adding an extra layer of magic to the experience. The ramp itself is functional, though amenities like restrooms are noted as being basic.Reddit

Kihei's Culinary Scene: Beyond the Ramp

While Kihei Boat Ramp is primarily an access point for ocean activities, the surrounding area, particularly the Kihei Food Oasis, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. This vibrant spot features a collection of diverse food trucks, offering a wide array of local and international flavors.TikTok+1 It's a fantastic place to sample authentic Hawaiian cuisine, from poke bowls to plate lunches, and explore unique culinary creations.

Visitors often praise the variety and quality of food available at the Kihei Food Oasis. It's described as a 'foodie heaven' TikTok and a 'super cute spot' with plenty of seating and sometimes even live music.TikTok This makes it an ideal location for a casual lunch or dinner after a day of exploring or before heading out on an evening tour.

Beyond the food trucks, the broader Kihei area offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Some TikToks even highlight excellent breakfast spots in Kihei,TikTok suggesting that the culinary scene caters to all times of the day. This makes Kihei a well-rounded destination for both adventure and gastronomy.

Navigating Kihei: Roads, Swells, and Local Life

Kihei presents a unique blend of laid-back island life and practical considerations for visitors. The road network, particularly the infamous roundabouts, can be a point of surprise for newcomers.TikTok While they are designed to improve traffic flow, they require a moment of adjustment for those unfamiliar with them.

Another aspect to be aware of is the impact of ocean swells and storms on local infrastructure. Videos have shown significant wave damage and road closures along South Kihei Road following severe weather.TikTok+1 This highlights the dynamic nature of coastal living in Hawaii and the importance of staying informed about local conditions, especially if planning to drive around the area.

Despite these minor challenges, Kihei is often described as an 'easy-going beach front town with great eateries'.TikTok It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some other Maui destinations, making it appealing for those seeking a less crowded experience.Reddit The Kihei Boat Ramp itself is a functional facility, but it's worth noting that amenities like restrooms are described as basic,Reddit a common characteristic of many beach access points.

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